Structural Engineering Design 2

Unit code: NEC4102 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEC2201 - Introduction to Structural Engineering Design
NEC3203 - Structural Engineering Design 1
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, you will build advanced knowledge and practical skills in the analysis and design of structural steel and steel, concrete composite systems. You will explore structural behaviour under complex loading conditions, including wind actions, local and global buckling, and combined bending and axial forces, while applying relevant Australian Standards to ensure safe and efficient designs. Emphasis is placed on the design of steel members and connections, as well as composite beams, slabs, and columns, supported by analytical tools and finite element methods.



Through problem-based learning and design tasks, you will apply structural theory to real-world design problems, evaluate structural performance, and develop sound engineering judgement. This unit prepares you to confidently undertake structural design in steel and composite materials, integrating technical accuracy with professional standards and communication.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Evaluate wind actions on structures and recommend appropriate responses under a variety of site and structural conditions;
  2. Design steel members subject to combined actions and present connection details in accordance with design codes;
  3. Analyse trusses and frames using finite element software and interpret the results to guide design decisions;
  4. Compute internal forces in steel beams and simple frames using plastic analysis method; and
  5. Collaborate effectively within a team setting to design composite structural elements, including slabs, beams, and columns, with consideration of material interaction and structural performance.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 15%
Problem solving tasks (Individual) (1000 words)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 25%
Design Project (Group) (2000 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 60%
Two Design problem solving scenarios (Individual) (60 mins each)

Portfolio: Design problem-solving tasks with progressive skill development supported by regular feedback and validation discussions.

Project: This secure assessment ensures accountability through structured reflection, documented collaboration, and detailed explanation of techniques, with in-class progressive milestone checks linked to individual students also being used to enhance security. These milestones are recorded and incorporated into the overall marking process. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further support the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Test: These invigilated in class secure assessments present unpredictable problem-solving scenarios that test deep understanding, requires explanation of reasoning and process, and involves applying knowledge to new contexts.

Required reading

Reading materials and other resources will be listed on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering)
NHEC | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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